LUMINARIES from Hollywood and politics reacted on Friday to the death of Sidney Poitier, who broke through racial barriers as the first Black actor to win an Oscar for his leading role in “Lilies of the Field,” and inspired a generation during the civil rights movement.
BARACK OBAMA, FORMER U.S. PRESIDENT:
“Through his groundbreaking roles and singular talent, Sidney Poitier epitomised dignity and grace, revealing the power of movies to bring us closer together. He also opened doors for a generation of actors. Michelle and I send our love to his family and legion of fans.”
OPRAH WINFREY, TALK SHOW HOST:
“For me, the greatest of the ‘Great Trees’ has fallen: Sidney Poitier. My honour to have loved him as a mentor. Friend. Brother. Confidant. Wisdom teacher. The utmost, highest regard and praise for his most magnificent, gracious, eloquent life. I treasured him. I adored him. He had
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